I’ve never been a fan of the sea.

Let me rephrase that. I like the sea, I just don’t want to go in it.

For one thing, it’s full of things with the potential to cause harm – sinkholes, sharks, jellyfish – they’re all in there.

For another thing, waves are only fun if you’re engaged in some kind of sport that relies on them. Ask those tourists who visited a wave pool in China – they’ll tell you.

According to CNN, my distaste for going into the sea is shared by many, which is why a number beachgoers prefer sea-adjacent tidal and oceanside pools.

Here’s a list of the best in the world, complete with one of our very own:

Porto Moniz, Madeira, Portugal

These natural swimming pools were formed over thousands of years by cooling volcanic lava.

The salty baths have been developed to make access easy, with steps down into the water and footpaths built around the perimeter.

There are handy lockers for stashing valuables and sun loungers too. The water is crystal clear, with fish easily visible to anyone who snaps on a pair of goggles.

Waves sometimes ruin things by encroaching on the pools, so be sure to watch out.

Treyarnon, Cornwall, England

The tidal pool to the north of Sandy Beach in Treyarnon is a prime spot for swimmers and snorkelers.

Refreshed by the tide every day, the eight-foot-deep pool is ripe for a refreshing plunge. Anyone who jumps in is rewarded with long views across the azure Atlantic. The pool should be avoided at high tide, though, when waves crash over the walls and make accessing it dangerous.

Giola, Thassos, Greece

It’s a bit of a hike to get there, but apparently worth the effort.

This natural lagoon, measuring around 15 meters across and 20 meters long (about 16 yards by 22 yards), has an eight-meter-high wall from which adventurous swimmers can jump or dive.

The Aegean water provides the perfect way to cool off on a hot afternoon — just remember that with no sandy beach close by, you’ll need to lie out on the rocks to dry off in the sun.

Sounds lovely.

Queen Joan’s Baths, Sorrento, Italy

This one has a scandalous history.

Named after a 14th century Queen of Naples who is said to have brought her lovers to this spot, it’s accessible only by foot. Those who make the trek are rewarded with clear, warm, turquoise water and views to make Instagram followers instantly envious.

There aren’t that many beaches in the area, so this is the place to go if you’re keen for a swim.

Queen’s Baths, Eleuthera, Bahamas

This spot is famous for its pink sand beaches.

But visitors to the Bahamian island of Eleuthera keen on a different kind of dip should also head to the rugged Atlantic coast and the beautiful Queen’s Baths.

Inundated at high tide, the water left as the tide recedes is warmed by the searing Caribbean sun, making the pools ideal for a long soak. The rocky surroundings mean visitors should wear a pair of water shoes or at least a pair of sneakers that can be left waterside.

Stay away at high tide.

Saunders Rock, Cape Town, South Africa

CNN was quick to point out that “no other city is as blessed with tidal pools as Cape Town. And picking just one is a tough task.”

Yep, we are the best at tidal pools. Here’s why they settled on Saunders Bay:

Saunders Rock at Bantry Bay is home to a perfect small pool surrounded by granite boulders that keeps swimmers sheltered from the attentions of the often harsh wind.

Best of all, its Atlantic coast location means that the sunsets here are unbeatable. Take to the pool as the sun dips toward the water and it’s difficult to imagine a better place for a soothing swim.

I think we’ll leave it there.

It’s always nice to head into a long weekend with some positive news about our city.

There are a few more on the list, which you can read about here.

[source:cnn]